Video Premiere: Steven Keene “Thesaurus”

Acclaimed New York singer-songwriter Steven Keene delivers a celebration of inspirational musicians from the past in his new single ‘Thesaurus’.  Clearly influenced by the songwriting greats, the grooving guitar and urgent percussion are the foundation for Keene’s Dylan-like vocal performance.  When Keene sings “They said how’d you write that song, we really love the chorus // I said I stole Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen’s thesaurus,” it’s a humorous but genuinely-felt tribute to his heroes.  Music lovers will delight in noting lyrics borrowed from Dylan and Cohen songs while identifying pop culture and musical icons in the accompanying video.  Above all, Keene shows great craft in his songwriting and skill in his performance – it’s an enjoyable run through that classic folk-rock sound.

Keen told says of the video: “I created this video as a tribute to the artists I consider mentors. Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen have deeply influenced my songwriting, and this project is my way of honoring their greatness. It isn’t meant to be misleading, but rather dreamlike and aspirational—a reflection of the admiration I have for them, and for all the other greats from that era.”

‘Thesaurus’ is taken from “Notice Me”, Keene’s brand new album, which is a mixture of new, original songs and covers of classics from renowned artists.  He explains the inspiration behind “Notice Me”: “I wanted this album to be a blend of deeply personal originals and carefully chosen covers from the singer-songwriters I’ve admired, learned from, and followed throughout their careers.  These artists have shaped my understanding of songwriting and storytelling, and their influence is woven into my own music. By pairing my original songs with their timeless work, I hoped to create a conversation across generations, honoring their legacy while sharing my own perspective and voice.  The album includes seven songs I wrote on my own and one that is an official co-write with Woody Guthrie, which was an incredible honor.  The idea of coming up with these covers – these are the guys I love. And if I can put my stamp on it – in just a little way – with my instrumentation including harmonica, strings or pedal steel, – for me, it’s just pure fun and joy”  Indeed, there’s plenty of joy to be found here, not least in that rare official collaboration with Woody Guthrie, the words to ‘This Land is Your Land’ reimagined for a modern audience: ‘This World is Your World’.  Check out the album – fine songwriting from a fine songwriter, paying homage to the greats.